Councillor members

Nine of the KPA members are from Kent County Council and Medway Council. They are selected by the councils themselves to serve on the KPA. Their political allegiance must mirror the political make-up of the two councils.

Councillor members normally serve for four years and can be reappointed. If, for any reason, a member stops serving as a councillor, he/she is no longer entitled to be a member of the KPA.

Independent members

Eight of the KPA members are drawn directly from the community and are known as independent members. Their main qualification is that they must either live or work in Kent.

Independent members will be chosen primarily for their ability to represent the people of Kent. It is therefore important that members reflect the diversity of the community covered by the Kent Police area.

Vacancies for independent members are usually advertised in the local press and applicants are considered by an independent selection panel.

Independent members are usually appointed for four years. They may be reappointed but normally wouldn't serve for more than 10 years at one police authority.

If your successful then a selection panel consisting of HR representatives and Authority members will interview you.

Interested in becoming an independent member?

If you are interested in applying to become an independent member then email kpaenquiries@kent.pnn.police.uk

There are some people who cannot be independent members - they are:

• members of Kent County Council and Medway Council
• employees of Kent County Council, Medway Council, Kent Police Authority and Kent Police
• Kent and Medway magistrates